2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade, particularly in its Calligraphy trim, set itself apart visually from other versions of the SUV. This model featured a distinct grille pattern, revised exterior lighting inclusive of puddle lamps on each side, additional lower body trim, unique 20-inch wheels, upgraded interior detailing, and a simulated suede interior headliner. While some of these features were standard in the 2020 Limited trim, the 2021 Limited adopted an exterior appearance identical to the Palisade SEL with Convenience or Premium option packages. The major exterior update was the standard LED headlights for models not previously equipped with them.

With the Calligraphy trim, the test vehicle stood out, garnering various levels of attention due to its unconventional styling. Opinions within my household differed; my wife adored the Palisade’s look, while I had a more mixed view but acknowledged its upscale appearance. Inside, the Calligraphy trim impressed with Beige over Navy Blue color schemes, light striated simulated wood trim, and quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather coupled with a suede headliner, making it feel more luxurious and a genuine bargain at its price point.

On the other hand, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came as a seven-passenger model, distinct from the traditional two-row Grand Cherokee and taking design cues from the upcoming 2022 model. Its styling mirrored the larger, more expensive Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models, creating a visually appealing and instantly recognizable Jeep aesthetic through its seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and familiar lighting arrangements. Available trims ranged from Laredo to Summit Reserve, with prices starting at $36,995 and climbing to $64,235.

Our Summit trim test vehicle boasted four-wheel drive, metallic paint, advanced technological packages, and a prominent McIntosh 19-speaker audio system, totaling $64,770. While some interior materials failed to meet the price tag’s expectations, the Summit still delivered with quilted and perforated leather, real wood trim, and an array of technology.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, though an all-wheel-drive option was available. Drivers could choose between Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models also offering a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. EPA estimates for AWD models were 21 mpg in combined driving; our test vehicle averaged 21.1 mpg using Smart mode.

Hyundai's tuning differentiated the Palisade from its Kia Telluride counterpart, favoring a firmer, more traditional SUV feel without harsh impact shocks. This tuning enhanced body-motion control, handling road undulations effectively without excessive body wallow. The Palisade remained sure-footed on twisty roads but prioritized predictability over outright fun, maintaining ease of operation in urban settings and effortless cruising on highways, assisted by Highway Drive Assist technology. The 5,000-pound towing capacity and a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector added practicality.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine making 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either rear-wheel or multiple four-wheel-drive systems. Its maximum tow rating was 6,200 pounds, with an EPA estimate of 21 mpg combined. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with select trims and 4WD, increased output to 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, raising the towing capacity to 7,200 pounds but lowering fuel economy to 17 mpg combined.

Our V6 4WD test vehicle provided brisk acceleration but with considerable noise when revved. Despite fuel economy measures, it averaged only 17.8 mpg during testing. The Jeep offered varying drive modes, including Sport and Selec-Terrain off-road settings, complemented by the Quadra-Lift suspension for impressive height and ground clearance adjustments. In everyday driving, the vehicle's structure contributed to a smooth ride, capable handling, and easy parking facilitated by a surround-view camera system.

Inside the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, the Calligraphy trim exuded luxury with its plush features and accommodating interior space. The front row featured eight-way power-adjustable seats, a heated steering wheel, and various climate controls. The second-row captain's chairs, heated and ventilated, provided comfortable passage to the third row, which was more accommodating than many rivals. Ample in-cabin storage and a unique storage tray under the center console were highlights. Cargo capacity with all seats up was 18 cubic feet, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet with the third row folded and 86.4 cubic feet with the second row also down. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience but could be turned off if unnecessary.

In the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, comfort was brought by Summit trim’s heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with 12-way power adjustment, a heated steering wheel, and a four-zone climate control system. The second row's captain’s chairs were spacious and supplied with manual sunshades, while the third row comfortably accommodated most adults. However, front-row storage was limited, with better storage options for second and third-row passengers. Behind the third row, cargo space measured 17.2 cubic feet, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, and maxing out at 84.6 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. Both supported dual smartphone pairing, with only the former providing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, wireless smartphone charging, Driver Talk intercom, Quiet Mode, and an intuitive voice-recognition system. Additional tech features included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system for improved driver assistance.

Jeep’s 2021 Grand Cherokee L incorporated the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, claiming five times faster response rates and improved user experience. Available with either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, it included wireless smartphone integration, Alexa compatibility, satellite radio, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Our test vehicle showcased a 19-speaker McIntosh sound system with impressive bass, albeit with incongruous interior branding. Other notable tech included a digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, a night vision system, and a Fam Cam for monitoring rear seats, plus a head-up display compatible with polarized sunglasses.

Safety was a standout feature for the Hyundai Palisade, equipped with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and multiple lane-keeping systems. Higher trims boasted advanced rear occupant alert systems, blind-spot monitoring, and Highway Drive Assist for refined adaptive cruise and lane-centering assistance, emphasizing driver engagement. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA and provided three free years of Blue Link services.

The Grand Cherokee L presented new safety technologies, notably Active Driving Assist for combined adaptive cruise and lane-centering assistance, and Intersection Collision Assist for enhanced intersection safety. Additional features included Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. Pending crash-test ratings suggested probable improvements over the older Grand Cherokee model.